The Cape Coral Cardboard Boat Regatta returns to Four Freedoms Park this weekend

April 19, 2013

The 20th annual Cape Coral Cardboard Boat Regatta is upon us. It takes place today and Saturday at Four Freedoms Park.

And what group isn't eager to take home the big prize?

Not only do the groups want to win the race, but also the People's Choice and other awards for best boat, the voting for which will be conducted by the Lee County Supervisor of Elections as a way to educate people on the importance of casting a ballot.

Vicki Collins, spokesperson for the supervisor, has been involved with the regatta since the office started its involvement in 2002.

She said it's about the people who come in Saturday to vote.

"We've partnered with the Rotary since 2002 to do the elections, when we first had the touch screens," Collins said. "We always have a great turnout, but last year it poured so we did a hand tally. I hope we don't have to do that this time."

Collins said it's also a great civics lesson for the kids.

"It's a good way for people to become familiar with the voting system. We will provide voter registration and all the other services," Collins said.

Ultimately, it comes down to the teams that make the boats, like the Merry Mariners, who last year swept the first-place awards, and are looking to do the same this year.